UX/UI: Vibey
Role : UX Designer, User Researcher, 3D designer
Duration : 12 Weeks
Client : Neruda Arts (Not-for-profit Organization)
Overview
Vibey is a lightweight vibrotactile wearable that allows Deaf and Hard of Hearing users to feel music through synchronized vibration. Built as a community-driven innovation inspired by Neruda Arts, the project promotes inclusivity by replacing stationary vibrotactile setups with a personal, on-the-go experience.
The Problem
Neruda Arts, is a non-profit music event organizer that hosts annual music events aimed at bringing people together. However, the events have unintentionally excluded members of the deaf and hard-of-hearing community, leaving them unable to fully experience and enjoy the performances.
To address this, They approached my team to design a human-centered solution that would offer an alternative way to experience musical sounds and make their events accessible and inclusive for all attendees.
Solution
Using a research-driven and human-centered approach, we designed a wearable vibrating device to make Neruda Arts’ music events inclusive for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Our research revealed the need for a solution to include the following:
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Portable
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Encouraged free movement
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Generate dynamic vibration frequencies
Guided by these insights, we created a device that attaches to the body with a strap or patch, allowing users to experience the rhythm and energy of live music in an accessible and engaging way.
Target User
Our primary users are individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing, as the device is designed to enhance their ability to experience music. However, research expanded our scope to include people without hearing disabilities who may also benefit from the immersive experience, both at music events and in at-home settings. Additionally, we identified our client as a key user, as they will manage and distribute the device during events to create a more inclusive experience for all attendees.
Low-Fidelity Design
Following a human-centered design approach, we began by brainstorming ideas and selecting features informed by user research. Guided by the design goals of portability, encouraging free movement, and delivering dynamic vibration frequencies, we created initial sketches of the wearable device. These low-fidelity prototypes allowed us to iterate quickly, gather feedback, and refine the concept based on user needs and preferences, ensuring the design aligned with our goals for an accessible and engaging solution.
Mid - Fi design
Building on feedback from the low-fidelity designs, we developed mid-fidelity prototypes to refine the solution and validate key design goals. Testing confirmed the device’s size was appropriate and that it successfully encouraged free movement. However, feedback highlighted the need to avoid using white as the as it evokes associations with medical devices.
The accompanying mobile app performed well functionally but required improved visualizations and the addition of a pause or stop control for better usability. Testing also provided insights to further enhance the attachments and overall user experience, setting the stage for continued refinement.
Refining the Design
Using insights from mid-fidelity prototype testing, we refined the device to better meet user needs and align with the client’s brand. The device color was changed to orange; a vibrant shade that reflects the energy of music events while staying consistent with the client’s branding. Additionally, we began testing button types and functionalities to optimize the device's controls, ensuring they were intuitive and enhanced the overall user experience.
Final Design
The final design of Vibey, presented to the client, successfully meets the design goals of portability, encouraging free movement, and delivering dynamic vibration frequencies. The solution consists of two integrated components:
The Device - Each Vibey set includes four wearable units that attach to the user’s body and translate music signals into vibrations. The units feature intuitive controls for pausing, adjusting intensity, and switching channels, allowing users to customize their experience. An LED light on each unit displays essential information such as battery level and device number, ensuring a seamless user experience.
The Charging Case - Vibey comes with a compact case that not only stores the units but also functions as a charging station. The units automatically recharge when placed in the case, ensuring they are always ready for use.
This final design provides an accessible, portable, and user-friendly solution that enhances inclusivity at music events while aligning with the energy and vibrancy of the experience.
Reflection
Working on Vibey was a deeply transformative experience that went beyond designing a product, it reshaped my perspective as a designer. Through user research and engagement with the deaf and hard-of-hearing community, I gained a profound appreciation for their pride and resilience. I learned that they do not view themselves as disabled but as individuals with unique experiences and capabilities.
This understanding challenged me to design with greater empathy and sensitivity, ensuring that the solution was not only functional but celebrated the community's identity and dignity. It reinforced the importance of inclusive design and taught me to approach every project with a deeper sense of responsibility and respect. This project has made me a more thoughtful and human-centered designer, committed to creating solutions that empower and uplift diverse users.